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Training for the Tormach (CNC Mill) consists of two parts. The first part includes both milling and machining basics and introductory CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing). CAM consists of software used to generate the g-code programs that the CNC mill executes to run the job. This classroom-based session lasts about four hours. The second part consists of using Mach 3 (our g-code pre-processor) and the Tormach itself. You will learn how to start up, shut down and clean up the machine by performing a practical cut in which you will make a set of sacrificial jaws from aluminium. The actual cutting project will be scheduled in pairs AFTER completing the first part of the course. Most participants need 3 to 4 hours to complete the project with their co-participant. Therefore, many participants will complete the project on a different day. This course will use Fusion 360 which can be downloaded and installed for free from Autodesk. If you are not attending a Protospace 3D CAD course before this course, please complete some of the tutorials and have a good understanding of how to use the program. If you are unable to use your CAD software at the start of the class, you will not be allowed to continue. This course is only available to keyholders (vetted members in good standing). Prior to this course, you must have completed the Protospace lathe training or been specifically approved. The cost of the course is $30 + 1 coffee. This covers the cost of material for the project, and 3/8″ 2 flute end-mill that is yours to keep. The coffee payment (large, 1 cream, one artificial sweetener) is due at the start of the practical portion of the course. Further coffee may be required to those who supervise or help with your first job personal job or project. Using the Tormach correctly involves understanding a lot of new information, and the cost of a mistake could be exorbitantly high (damage to the machine and your project). Therefore, the first job or two that you do the Tormach must be supervised until you demonstrate skill and confidence with machine and the workflow of using it.

Come learn some tips, tricks and techniques to make better video! Whether its to document your project and promote Protospace, or show Grandma your child’s latest triumph, we all appreciate “good” video.

Our resident guru, Steve Tsuida, artist, designer, geek, and a professional videographer, has put together a 2-hour workshop on how to elevate your video skills… letting you make more shots that you can be proud of. The workshop will include a chance to shoot footage of Protospace or projects, and get critiques or hints immediately.

We’ve all enjoyed Steve’s work for Protospace (such as https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbFtyHsOjPM) and other clients, and this is your chance to up your game. Steve’s YouTube channel is at https://www.youtube.com/user/stsuida/videos.